[HPforGrownups] The use of the name Voldemort - Invoking

[Jesta Hijinx]

No: HPFGUIDX 42315

>I couldn't see this on the VFAQ, so excuse me if it's in there.
>
>My friend and I were wondering about the use (or lack, there of) of
>the name Voldemort.
>Now, wizards and witches don't say the name because they are afraid
>of it etc.
>So, why would muggle borns (i.e. Hermione) be afraid to
>use the name?? In the books, it is only Dumbledore and Harry (mostly)
>that call him Voldemort. It doens't make sense.
>
>And doesn't the insistence of Wizards of not saying his name, incite
>a fear that isn't there? If they weren't scared of Voldemort, perhaps
>he wouldn't be so powerful.
>
>Just our little thoughts, would like to hear yours :-)
>
>Jean
>
Hi Jean and all -

My thoughts about this is that, even in our culture, words can be a very 
powerful weapon.

Think of the kneejerk reactions a term like "Nazi" provokes.

That's one.

the second is a more arcane sense that has hung about many magical and 
mystical traditions, that to say the name of a being or thing, or to chant 
or intone it, is to call or invoke the presence of same.

I think that is what is at work here.

Felinia


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